Foundation Sets Goals for Remote Indigenous Youth

Posted: Thursday, May 29, 2014 - 09:38

A new Not for Profit that aims to get more youth from remote Indigenous communities into plumbing apprenticeships has been launched.

The Indigenous Plumbing and Sanitation Foundation said it hoped to offer assistance to remote Indigenous communities by providing funds to improve sanitation standards and the water supply to outstations and small remote Indigenous communities.

It also said it aimed to further enhance the existing Indigenous Apprenticeship Program, and increase the number of trained and qualified Indigenous plumbers, who will return to their communities and provide maintenance of water, sanitation and plumbing systems.

According to the foundation, many self-administered remote Indigenous communities faced acute challenges in maintaining access to the basic human needs due to a lack of skilled tradespeople.

The foundation was launched by Indigenous advocate and former AFL player Michael Long, who sits on the foundation’s board. Its launch coincided with the Indigenous Round of the AFL and the 10-year Anniversary of The Long Walk.

“As a Board Member, I’m committed to building productive partnerships with the community, business and government sectors to help raise funds for worthy projects,” Long said.

“Plumbing is on the front-line in the defence against disease and this is where the IPSF has an important role to play.”

The Indigenous Plumbing and Sanitation Foundation will also offer mentoring for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders.

For more information on the Indigenous Plumbing and Sanitation Foundation, click here.